EXCAVATION DIARIES

Since 1996, the Çatalhöyük Research Project has used diaries as a means of recording the broader context surrounding the rest of the archaeological data contained in the database. Both excavators and lab specialists are encouraged to write two diary entries each week, each consisting of narrative accounts intended to center on developing research questions and interpretations.

Sometimes, excavators who have uncovered a unique artefact record their feelings, or an expert may record how she managed to overcome a complicated problem. All the diary entries are posted online at the end of each season, along with the conventional recording forms completed during excavation.